The effects of isothermic and hypothermic carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum on respiratory function test results

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: This study investigated the effects of isothermic and hypothermic carbon dioxide, used for pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, on respiratory function test results. METHODS: Thirty patients who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were enrolled in this prospective randomized study. The patients were divided into two groups. Carbon dioxide at 37 degrees C (isothermic) was used in the isothermic group, and carbon dioxide at 21 degrees C (hypothermic) was used in the hypothermic group. Respiratory function tests were performed in the preoperative period and at 12 h after the operation. RESULTS: Mean forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV1), maximum peak expiratory flow (PEF), and the FEV1/FVC ratio were significantly higher in the isothermic group than in the hypothermic group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Using isothermic carbon dioxide for pneumoperitoneum has fewer negative effects than hypothermic carbon dioxide on respiratory function tests results. Isothermic carbon dioxide may be preferable for patients with respiratory problems.